Interlaken Accommodation Guide: Where to Stay Like a Local

I’ve lived in Interlaken for over a decade now—wake up every morning, throw open my window, and there it is, the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau staring right back at me. This town isn’t just my home; it’s my office, day in and day out. I’ve picked up thousands of travelers from the train stations, chatted with them over coffee, and heard the same question a million times: “Where should I stay in Interlaken?” It sounds simple, but trust me, there’s a lot more to it than you think.

Interlaken is tiny—you can walk from one end to the other in 30 minutes—but the accommodation here is all over the map. You can drop $1000+ a night on a luxury suite with a private balcony and mountain views, or you can sleep in a tent for under $40. No two places are the same, and what works for one traveler might be a disaster for another. That’s why I’m here to break it down for you, no fluff, no fancy talk—just the real deal from someone who’s seen it all.

First things first: Interlaken’s accommodation boils down to three main areas, and your choice here will make or break your trip. There’s the town center, mostly around Hoheweg (the main strip), Interlaken Ost train station, and Interlaken West train station. The center is chaos in the best way—shops, restaurants, and the famous Höhematte park right at your doorstep. Ost is where you catch the train to Jungfraujoch (the “Top of Europe”), so it’s perfect if you’re an early bird. West is quieter, more residential, and where you’ll find most of the budget-friendly spots. Got that? Good. Now let’s dive into the good stuff.

Luxury Interlaken Accommodation: Splurge Worthy Stays for the Ultimate Mountain Experience

Look, if you’re coming to Interlaken and want to go all out—“I’m on vacation, I deserve the best” style—you won’t be disappointed. The town’s top luxury hotels aren’t just places to sleep; they’re experiences. I’ve had guests come back from these spots saying it was the best part of their trip, and honestly? I get it. These places know how to treat people, and the views? Unbeatable.

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa – The Icon (and Worth Every Penny)

If you’ve seen any photos of Interlaken, you’ve probably seen this hotel. It’s the big, grand building on Hoheweg, right across from the Höhematte park, and it’s been a landmark here for over 100 years. I’ve dropped off guests here at 8 a.m. and picked them up at 8 p.m.—they never wanted to leave. Let me tell you why.

First, the location is unbeatable. Every single room has a view of the Jungfrau massif, and if you spring for a balcony suite, you can sit there with a coffee at sunrise and watch the mountains turn pink. But the real star here is the 5,500-square-meter spa. It’s not just a pool—there’s an indoor pool with floor-to-ceiling windows, an outdoor pool with mountain views (yes, even in winter, it’s heated), saunas, steam rooms, and a full menu of massages. I had a guest once who hiked the Jungfraujoch all day, came back sore, and spent two hours in the spa—said he felt like a new person the next day.

The rooms are classic European luxury—dark wood, plush carpets, big beds with down comforters, and marble bathrooms. The service is next level too; the doormen remember your name by the second day, the waitstaff know your coffee order, and if you ask for a recommendation for a hike or a restaurant, they’ll give you the local scoop, not just the tourist traps. Oh, and the breakfast? It’s a spread—fresh pastries, local cheeses, smoked salmon, made-to-order omelets, and even a chocolate fountain. Yeah, it’s extra, but that’s the point.

Prices start at around $550 per night for a standard room, and that’s in the off-season. During peak season (June to August, and December to February for skiing), prices jump to $700-$800, and suites can easily hit $1000+. Is it expensive? Absolutely. But if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this is it. Pro tip: Book at least 3 months in advance—this place sells out fast, especially the balcony rooms.

Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage – Luxury with a Quiet Twist

If the Victoria Jungfrau feels too busy for you, the Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage is your spot. It’s a five-star hotel too, but it’s located on the banks of the Aare River, just a 10-minute walk from Interlaken West station. It’s quieter, more intimate, and has a vibe that’s perfect for couples or anyone who wants luxury without the crowds.

The best thing about this hotel? It has its own private boat dock. I kid you not—during the summer, you can walk out of the hotel, hop on a boat, and head straight to Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. No waiting in lines, no crowded tour boats—just you, the water, and the mountains. I’ve had couples tell me this was their favorite part of their trip; they’d spend afternoons cruising the lake, stopping at little villages along the way, and then head back to the hotel for dinner.

The rooms are modern but cozy—neutral colors, big windows, and most have river or mountain views. The spa here is smaller than the Victoria Jungfrau’s, but it’s still lovely—indoor pool, sauna, and a few treatment rooms. The restaurant is right on the river, so you can eat outside in the summer and watch the water flow by. The food is fantastic too—local Swiss dishes like fondue and raclette, plus some international options.

Prices here are a bit more affordable than the Victoria Jungfrau, starting at around $150 per night in the off-season. Peak season prices go up to $250-$300, which is still a steal for a five-star hotel in Interlaken. If you want luxury but don’t want to pay top dollar, this is the place. Just a heads up: It’s a bit further from the town center, so you’ll need to walk 15-20 minutes or take a bus if you want to hit the shops and restaurants on Hoheweg.

Hotel Interlaken – Old-World Charm with Modern Comforts

This hotel is a hidden gem, and I feel like not enough people know about it. It’s the oldest hotel in Interlaken—dates back to the Middle Ages—and has hosted famous people like Lord Byron and Felix Mendelssohn. I’ve been inside a hundred times, and every time I walk in, I feel like I’m stepping back in time—until I see the modern amenities, that is.

They did a big renovation in 2022, so the inside is now sleek and modern with a Nordic minimalist vibe—light wood, neutral colors, and big windows. But the outside is still the same old stone building with a tiled roof, and the lobby has old photos and artifacts from the hotel’s history. It’s the perfect mix of old and new, and it’s located right next to Interlaken Ost station—so if you’re planning to take the train to Jungfraujoch, you can walk there in 5 minutes. No early-morning panic, no rushing to catch the train.

The rooms are comfortable—nothing too fancy, but clean and spacious. Most have mountain views, and the beds are really comfortable (trust me, I’ve sat on them). The staff here is great too—they’re all locals, so they can give you the best tips on where to eat, hike, and avoid the tourist crowds. The breakfast is simple but good—fresh bread, cheese, fruit, and coffee. No chocolate fountain here, but that’s okay; it’s more about the charm than the frills.

Prices start at around $130 per night in the off-season, which is amazing for a four-star hotel with so much history. Peak season prices go up to $180-$200, which is still a great deal. This place is perfect for history buffs who don’t want to sacrifice modern comforts, or anyone who wants to be close to the Ost station. Pro tip: Ask for a room on the second floor—those have the best mountain views.

Mid-Range Interlaken Accommodation: Comfortable, Convenient, and Budget-Friendly

Most travelers fall into this category—they want a comfortable place to sleep, but they don’t want to spend a fortune. Luckily, Interlaken has plenty of mid-range options that are clean, convenient, and won’t break the bank. These are the places I recommend most often to my guests, because they hit that sweet spot between luxury and budget.

Royal St Georges Hotel Interlaken – MGallery – Reliable Comfort with Great Perks

This hotel is part of Accor’s MGallery collection, so you know the quality is consistent. It’s located at the eastern end of Hoheweg, right near Interlaken Ost station and the paragliding meeting point. I’ve had so many guests stay here and rave about it—mostly because of the little perks that make a big difference.

First, the breakfast is fantastic. It’s a big buffet with fresh pastries, local cheeses, meats, fruit, yogurt, and made-to-order eggs. I’ve had guests tell me they skipped lunch because the breakfast was so filling. Second, the hotel offers free shuttle service from the train stations—so if you’re drag a big suitcase, you don’t have to walk or take a bus. That’s a lifesaver, especially after a long train ride.

The rooms are clean and comfortable—modern decor, big beds, and some have balconies with mountain views. The hotel is a bit old, so the facilities aren’t the newest (the elevators are small, and the bathrooms are a bit tight), but that’s part of its charm. The staff is friendly and helpful, and they can help you book paragliding, boat trips, or train tickets to Jungfraujoch.

Prices are usually between $140 and $200 per night, depending on the season. During peak season (like July and August), prices can go up to $250, but it’s still a good deal for the location and the perks. This place is perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers who want a reliable, comfortable stay without the luxury price tag. Just a heads up: It can get a bit noisy on weekends, since it’s near the paragliding takeoff point.

Hotel Krebs Interlaken – Family-Run Charm in the Heart of West

This is a family-run hotel, and you can tell the second you walk in. It’s warm, cozy, and the staff treats you like family. It’s located right across the street from Interlaken West station, on Bahnhofstrasse—so it’s super convenient if you’re taking trains to Lake Thun, Spiez, or other nearby towns.

The hotel is small—only about 30 rooms—but that’s what makes it great. The rooms are clean and simple, with wooden furniture and mountain views. Most rooms have a small balcony, which is perfect for sitting and having a beer after a day of hiking. The family that runs it has been here for generations, so they know everything about Interlaken—ask them for a recommendation, and they’ll tell you about the best hidden hiking trails or the cheapest place to get fondue.

The location is unbeatable for West station—you can walk to the train in 2 minutes, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops right outside the door. There’s a small breakfast room, and the breakfast is simple but good—fresh bread, jam, cheese, and coffee. They also have a small bar where you can get a drink in the evening, and the owners often join guests for a chat.

Prices are super friendly—usually around $120 per night, and you can often find deals for $100 or less in the off-season. Peak season prices go up to $150-$180, which is still a great deal. This place is perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone who wants a cozy, family-run experience. Just note that the rooms are a bit small, so if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage, you might feel cramped.

Hotel Beausite – Budget-Friendly Mountain Views

If you want mountain views without paying a fortune, this is the hotel for you. It’s a three-star hotel on Hoheweg, and it’s easy to spot—look for the bright yellow balconies. Every single room here has a mountain view, which is rare for a three-star hotel in Interlaken. I’ve stayed here myself a few times (when my apartment was being painted), and I was shocked at how good the views were for the price.

The rooms are simple but clean—basic furniture, small bathrooms, but everything you need. The beds are comfortable, and the balconies are perfect for watching the mountains at sunset. The hotel is located right next to the bus stop for Jungfraujoch, so you can catch the bus in 2 minutes, and the Höhematte park is right across the street. You can walk to the town center in 5 minutes, so you’re close to all the action but not in the middle of the chaos.

The staff is friendly, but they’re not as attentive as the luxury hotels—don’t expect them to remember your name, but they’ll help you with whatever you need. The breakfast is basic—bread, cheese, fruit, coffee—but it’s filling. There’s no spa or fancy restaurant here, but that’s why the prices are so low.

Prices start at around $150 per night for a mountain view room in the off-season. Peak season prices go up to $180-$200, which is still a great deal for a room with mountain views on Hoheweg. This place is perfect for budget travelers who want to be in the center of town and have great views. Just a heads up: The walls are a bit thin, so you might hear your neighbors, but it’s not too bad.

Budget Interlaken Accommodation: Backpacker Spots, Tents, and Family-Friendly Apartments

Switzerland is expensive—we all know that. But you don’t have to spend a fortune to stay in Interlaken. There are plenty of budget options that are clean, safe, and fun. I’ve recommended these spots to hundreds of backpackers and families, and they all come back saying they had a great time. These places aren’t fancy, but they get the job done, and they let you save money for hiking, paragliding, and other activities.

Backpackers Villa Interlaken – The Best Hostel in Town (Maybe the World)

I’m not exaggerating when I say this is one of the best hostels in the world. I’ve met backpackers who came to Interlaken just to stay here, and I don’t blame them. It’s not just a hostel—it’s a community, and it’s run by people who actually care about making your stay great.

The hostel has two parts: the main building and the chalet hostel. The main building is a big, old house with dorm rooms (4-bed, 6-bed, 8-bed) and private rooms. The chalet hostel is a traditional Swiss chalet with wooden walls and a cozy fireplace—it’s perfect if you want a more authentic experience. Both parts have free Wi-Fi, free lockers, and free bedding.

But the best part? The perks. They give you a free local bus pass, so you can get around town for free. They have a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, oven, microwave, and even a dishwasher—so you can cook your own meals and save money (Swiss restaurants are expensive!). They also have a small pool, a mini-golf course, and a common room with a TV, board games, and a bar. Every night, they host events like pub crawls, movie nights, and hiking trips—so it’s easy to meet other travelers.

The staff here is amazing—they’re all travelers themselves, so they know exactly what you need. They can help you book paragliding, train tickets, or hiking tours, and they’ll give you the best tips on where to eat cheaply. The dorm rooms are clean, and the beds are comfortable (with privacy curtains, which is a plus). They also have family rooms if you’re traveling with kids—they sleep 4-6 people and have a private bathroom.

Prices start at around $60 per night for a dorm bed, and private rooms start at $120. This place is super popular, so you need to book at least 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak season. It’s perfect for solo backpackers, groups of friends, or budget-conscious families. Trust me, you won’t regret staying here.

The Tent Village – Cheap, Fun, and Unique

If you’re really on a budget, or if you just want a unique experience, The Tent Village is the way to go. It’s exactly what it sounds like—rows of sturdy, waterproof tents set up in a field just outside of town. I’ve stayed here a few times with friends, and it’s a lot of fun—especially in the summer.

The tents are big enough for 2-4 people, and they come with mattresses, sleeping bags, and pillows. There are shared bathrooms with showers (hot water, don’t worry) and a shared kitchen with a fridge, stove, and microwave. There’s also a common area with picnic tables and a fire pit—perfect for sitting around at night, drinking beer, and meeting other travelers.

The location is a bit outside of town—about a 15-minute walk from Interlaken West station—but there’s a bus that stops right outside, so it’s easy to get into town. The best part is the views—you can see the mountains from every tent, and at night, the stars are amazing. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers who don’t mind roughing it a little.

Prices are super cheap—around $35-$40 per night for a tent spot. It’s only open from May to September, though, so you can’t stay here in the winter. This place is perfect for backpackers, students, or anyone who wants to save money and have a fun, communal experience. Just a heads up: It can get cold at night, even in the summer, so bring a jacket. Also, the bathrooms can get a bit messy on weekends, but that’s to be expected.

Hotel Tell & Similar Apartments – Perfect for Families and Groups

If you’re traveling with a family or a group of friends, a hotel room can get cramped and expensive. That’s why I always recommend apartments or hotel apartments—they’re bigger, have kitchens, and are more affordable per person. Hotel Tell is one of my favorites, but there are plenty of similar options in the Matten neighborhood.

Hotel Tell is located in Matten, which is a quiet neighborhood just outside of town. It’s a 10-minute walk from Interlaken West station, or a 5-minute bus ride. The apartments are spacious—most sleep 4-6 people—and they have a living room, a kitchen, and 1-2 bedrooms. The kitchens are fully equipped, so you can buy groceries from the nearby Coop or Migros (Swiss supermarkets) and cook your own meals. This saves a ton of money, since eating out in Interlaken can cost $30-$50 per person per meal.

The apartments are clean and comfortable—nothing fancy, but they have everything you need: Wi-Fi, TV, washing machine, and mountain views. The staff is friendly, and they can help you with anything you need. The neighborhood is quiet and residential, so it’s perfect for families with kids or anyone who wants to get away from the tourist crowds.

Prices start at around $200 per night for a 4-person apartment, and $300 per night for a 6-person apartment. Per person, that’s only $50-$60, which is way cheaper than staying in a hotel. There are other similar apartments in Matten, so if Hotel Tell is booked, just search for “Interlaken Matten apartments” and you’ll find plenty of options. This is the best choice for families or groups—trust me, you’ll have more space and save money.

Local Pro Tips: Avoid Mistakes and Make the Most of Your Stay

I’ve seen a lot of travelers make mistakes when booking accommodation in Interlaken, so I’m going to share some tips that will save you time, money, and frustration. These are the things I tell all my guests, and they always thank me for it.

First, always ask for a tourist card. Most hotels in Interlaken offer a free tourist card that lets you ride the local buses for free. This might seem like a small thing, but it saves you money (bus tickets are around $3 per ride) and makes it easier to get around. Some hotels also include discounts on paragliding, boat trips, or museum entries with the card—so always ask when you book.

Second, book early. Like, really early. Interlaken is the gateway to the Jungfrau region, so it’s busy year-round. The best hotels and hostels sell out 3-6 months in advance, especially during peak season (June-August, December-February). I’ve seen so many travelers arrive in town with no booking, only to find that all the budget and mid-range spots are full, and they have to pay double for a luxury suite. Don’t be that person—book early.

Third, choose your location wisely. If you’re planning to go to Jungfraujoch early in the morning, stay near Interlaken Ost station. The first train leaves at 7 a.m., and you don’t want to be rushing across town to catch it. If you want to be in the middle of the action, stay in the town center (Hoheweg). If you want peace and quiet, stay in West or Matten. It’s simple, but it makes a big difference.

Fourth, don’t pay extra for a mountain view unless you’ll use it. Mountain view rooms are usually $20-$50 more per night. If you’re going to be out hiking, paragliding, or exploring all day, and you’ll only be in your room to sleep, you don’t need a mountain view. A street view or side mountain view is cheaper and just as good. Save that money for activities instead.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for deals. A lot of hotels offer discounts if you stay for 3 or more nights, or if you book directly through their website (instead of a third-party site like Booking.com). Some hostels also offer discounts for students or members of youth hostels associations. It never hurts to ask—you might save some money.

At the end of the day, there’s no “perfect” place to stay in Interlaken—it all depends on your budget, your travel style, and what you want out of your trip. Whether you’re splurging on a luxury suite with a mountain view or sleeping in a tent with other backpackers, you’re going to have an amazing time. This town is magical, and no matter where you stay, you’ll wake up to those incredible mountain views. Trust me—I’ve been doing this for over a decade, and I still get chills every time I look out my window.

About the Author

TrailBlazer

Administrator

I’ve lived in Barcelona for 8 years, and my mission is to guide you past the bustle of Las Rambla. Together, we’ll uncover the hidden alleyways where only locals know to find the best tapas spots.

Visit Website View All Posts